1 July 2010

Maiko Ayano is from the Hanamachi of Pontocho. I bumped into her when walking through Pontocho, Kyoto famous narrow street full of restaurants and bars. I am grateful to her for allowing me to shoot this lovely portrait. Day-time offers a chance to see the Maiko of this Hanamachi walking through Pontocho wearing colorful Kimono without Oshiroi (white make-up).

I also bumped into Maiko Shinaju a few minutes later and took the below picture of her wearing this beautiful blue kimono.

Maiko ShinajuPontocho, Kyoto, April 2010

The below picture is the same scene of Maiko Shinaju walking through Pontocho. It gives a good overview of this narrow street and lanterns of the restaurants.